Is it Time for a Family Pow-Wow?

Part 3 of 3 - Begin the family gathering by asking everyone to attend who you think could be involved. This includes out-of-town folks, grandchildren, and teenagers (who can run errands, play games, mow the lawn, etc.), even other elderly relatives. At some point, you may want to count on neighbors as well.

Ask all those attending to bring their questions and concerns as well as a list of what they can and cannot do or provide.

Some may only be able to provide financial assistance and nothing more. Consider a Zoom meeting if that is more convenient and appropriate.

Have ground rules: such as, no “put downs,” everyone is allowed to speak without judgment or anger, have a beginning and ending deadline for the meeting, schedule a follow-up with everyone on a regular basis, establish a goal of what you want to accomplish…such as responsibilities for each person.

Consider having an “outsider” join the meeting to keep things on track and on time and who can be unemotional. Have one person take notes and distribute the notes to everyone within a couple of days after the meeting.